10 high-end themed hotel suites

For some well-heeled travelers, Pratesi linens and Carrara marble are what defines a luxury stay. But an increasing number of haute hotels now offer something beyond mere refinement: themed suites that promise both shut-eye and eye-popping escapism.

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“People are searching for that ‘wow’ factor,” says Nancy Novogrod, editor-in-chief of Travel + Leisure. “These are people who have seen a lot, and they want something to surprise and delight them – to experience a break from the everyday.”

With that in mind, we combed the globe to find whimsical, way-out rooms that are truly transporting. Click ahead to see 10 high-end fantasy hotel suites.

James Bond fans will be both shaken and stirred by this homage to the sly spy. The den-like, retro retreat features its own Turkish bath, a complete library of Bond films, and, of course, some ultra-cool gadgets, including a TV screen that diffuses four different “mood fragrances” and a lamp with a base made of a (fake) golden gun. Femme fatale not included.

For high-flying financiers, this may be the ultimate soft landing. This hangar-like cottage has a 17,000-pound, fully restored 1968 Sikorsky helicopter as its centerpiece. Inside the decommissioned Coast Guard copter you’ll find a lounge, bar and entertainment center, and the original cockpit, where guests can play “pilot.” Surrounding the aircraft are plenty of creature comforts: an oversize tub, fireplace, and a cozy bedroom area. The Winvian Resort, by the way, has Wall Street in its DNA: It was once a farm owned by Merrill Lynch co-founder Winthrop Smith. The property is still family-run.

Audrey Hepburn fans will likely “go lightly” into this chic retreat, which pays tribute to Tiffany’s. High above Fifth Avenue (and steps from the iconic jeweler), the 1,700-square-foot suite is decked out in robin’s-egg blue and shimmering chandeliers, and offers floor-to-ceiling views of New York’s Central Park. Inspired accents include an elaborate jewel-shaped mirror and a console that evokes an engagement ring. And whether you’re hosting a bridal party or a breakfast (cue the strains of “Moon River”), there’s plenty of Tiffany table service to go around.

Here’s one place you won’t mind sleeping with the fishes. This suite, envisioned for the Poseidon Undersea Resort in Fiji (opening date TBA), will allow guests to luxuriate in a lagoon 40 feet underwater. A thick acrylic window will envelop 70 percent of the room, promising unparalleled views of the abundant sea life. The resort will also offer a library, a 100-seat restaurant, as well as wine tastings, SCUBA expeditions, and spa treatments – all with the ultimate ocean view.

Big shots can indulge their hoop dreams in this 10,000-square-foot duplex, which features a private basketball court, electronic scoreboard, and its own locker room (which can be stocked with everything from beer to basketball jerseys). The suite also boasts a full bar, a DJ booth and a dance floor – perfect for celebrating those slam dunks. After the revelry, guests can score some Z’s in an NBA-approved, extra-long bed.

For Walt Disney fans, this “mouse pad” may be the ultimate draw. The 1,600-square-foot suite incorporates iconic Mickey imagery throughout, from cut-outs in the ceiling to lighting fixtures and bedding. The living room’s state-of-the-art theater features no less than three flat-screen TVs. Rare sketches from the Disney library adorn many of the penthouse walls. The suite also has some unexpected surprises, like “hidden Mickeys” that appear in the shower when it gets steamy, and a high-tech animator’s station in the kids’ bedroom.

For every girl who had a Barbie Dream House (or longed for one), this is the fantasy, all grown up. This 2,350-square-foot hot-pink palace, designed by top interior decorator Jonathan Adler, is awash with “tongue-in-chic” touches, like a sunburst mirror created from 65 Barbie dolls, and chairs with corseted lace-up backs. The suite also offers a two-way fireplace and spectacular views of Las Vegas. You can invite Skipper, Midge, and all your other pals, too: the suite (which is often booked for bachelorette parties) can accommodate up to 50 guests.

(Photo: The Plaza Hotel)

Knights of the Plaza Tower SuiteLocation: The Plaza Hotel,
New YorkCost: From $1,345 per night

Call it “Game of Thrones Lite.” This tot spot boasts a round bed in a circular tower, complete with a 23-foot exposed-brick cathedral ceiling. A full complement of chivalric accoutrements abound, including a closet brimming with medieval costumes and toys. As part of the pomp, young guests are addressed by staff throughout the hotel as “Your lordship” or “Your ladyship.” The Plaza also arranges a picnic fit for a king (or queen) at Central Park’s Belvedere Castle.

For pampered young ladies, this suite is a pink-dappled paean to Eloise — the pint-sized heroine who lived on the Plaza’s “tippy-top floor” in the beloved books by author Kay Thompson. Designed by the funky, flamboyant fashion designer Betsey Johnson, this 18th-floor confection can comfortably coddle up to four kids (perfect for soigné sleepovers), and offers extras like a monogrammed bathrobe, an Eloise camera, and access to a sweet set of wheels at the Plaza’s Tricycle Garage.

This log-filled lodge is a great place to commune with nature – and marvel at some architectural ingenuity. Guests can bunker down beneath a real beaver dam – which was found nearby, pressure-washed, and painstakingly reconstructed in the suite’s ceiling. Tree trunks serve as the room’s structural supports; the bath has a stone steam shower and tree-flanked tub that’s filled by a waterfall spout.